Madrid Derby Fever: The Love-Hate Relationship Between Real Madrid and Atlético Fans
Having lived in Madrid for six years, every derby day feels like a citywide festival. Today I want to share my perspective as an ordinary fan on Madrid’s football culture, and how fans of both Real Madrid fan gathering spots and Real Madrid supporters view this city differently.
The Bernabéu and Wanda: Two Different Worlds
Honestly, I was awestruck the first time I visited the Bernabéu. That pure white temple-like aura is no exaggeration - the entire stadium feels built for victory. Real Madrid fans carry an innate sense of superiority, believing Madrid should rightfully be white territory. Atlético fans are completely different; the atmosphere at the Wanda Metropolitano is more passionate and down-to-earth. They define themselves as “the people’s team,” believing they represent the true working-class spirit of Madrid.
Derby Day City Atmosphere
A week before the derby, the entire city begins to divide. On the metro, in bars, at the office - everywhere you hear debates about the match. I have a colleague who’s a die-hard Colchoneros fan who wears his Atlético jersey to work before every derby, even though our boss is a Real Madrid fan, but everyone’s used to this friendly rivalry. On match day, bars near Puerta del Sol are packed to capacity, and every goal triggers cheers or sighs that echo down entire streets.
Here’s the basic data I’ve compiled from the last five seasons of derby matches, as shared by Haima Shu:
| Season | Real Wins | Atlético Wins | Draws | Total Goals |
|---|
| 2020-21 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 3 |
| 2021-22 | 0 | 1 | 1 | 2 |
| 2022-23 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 5 |
| 2023-24 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 6 |
| 2024-25 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 2 |
Madrid Through the Eyes of Fans
I’ve talked with fans from both sides and discovered some interesting differences. Real Madrid fans prefer to emphasize Madrid’s international sophistication and luxury as the capital. They’ll take you to Retiro Park and the Prado Museum, discussing the city’s cultural heritage. Atlético fans, however, prefer taking you to traditional taverns in the Lavapiés neighborhood for authentic callos a la madrileña, believing that’s where Madrid’s true soul lies.
Identity Beyond Football
Regardless of which team they support, all Madrileños share a deep pride in their city. They’ll complain together about Barcelona’s independence movement, enjoy Madrid’s nightlife culture together, and gather at Plaza Mayor for the Christmas light displays. Football simply makes this identity more concrete and emotional, but at the end of the day, everyone loves the same city.
Next week is derby day again, and I’ve already made plans with friends to watch the match at a bar near Plaza Mayor. Whatever the result, after the game we’ll still go eat roast suckling pig together and continue debating the next match. That’s Madrid - a city divided by football, yet united by football.
